On a flight to Mexico in 2015, Juan became seriously ill. When he landed, an ambulance transported him to the hospital. The local doctor told Juan he needed a pacemaker, immediately. Following surgery and recovery, he returned home to Chicago, but he soon began feeling extremely fatigued.

Dr. Demo discovered that Juan had suffered a heart attack in Mexico which had weakened his heart muscles and made him experience symptoms of heart failure. Juan’s condition had been worsened by the fact that the original pacemaker was pacing his heart at 100%.

“Dr. Demo was very down to earth and took the time to explain the procedure and why it was necessary,” said Sylvia. “We also learned that my dad actually had a heart attack about a year before, which we did not know.”

“After running the appropriate testing, I found Juan to be a great candidate for a newer electrophysiology technology called cardiac resynchronization therapy,” said Dr. Demo. “I upgraded his pacemaker to a biventricular defibrillator. In addition to protecting him from sudden cardiac death due to weak heart muscle, the defibrillator helps strengthen his heart and improves his overall functional status.”

Much to his relief, Juan’s symptoms significantly improved. “I can hear how strong his voice is now,” said Sylvia. “It’s nice to have my father back and on the road to recovery thanks to Dr. Demo. He’s looking forward to getting more active again and going on longer walks, which he enjoys.”

“My parents are extremely happy for the treatment they received,” added Sylvia. “It has truly changed their lives. They are looking forward with a positive outlook and are very thankful to their doctors for giving them back a normal life.”

Hany Demo, M.D., is a board-certified cardiac electrophysiologist with Swedish Covenant Medical Group. His clinical interests include endovascular medicine, pacemaker and ICD implantation, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), atrial fibrillation, cryoablation and arrhythmia management. He has more than 10 years of experience.

To schedule an appointment with either of these physicians, call 773-878-8200.

“If I hadn’t gone to the hospital when I did, I could have had a stroke. I love Swedish Covenant Hospital. Everyone there is so nice, from the frontline staff to the nurses and doctors who cared for me in my time of need.”